19 Weeks Pregnant

Dear would-be-mom, you're now mid-way through your fifth month – 4 more months to go! Things are moving quite fast now with your little one's progress. So, this week might bring some discomfort through symptoms. However, the moments your little one brings along will make it all worth it! To know more about what you will experience this week, keep reading.

Your Baby at 19 Weeks

Your 19-week foetus has grown to be the size of a mango, weighing about 270 gms and measuring about 6.25 inches in height from crown to rump. By this week, your baby will have the following development:

Vernix

Your baby's skin will be covered in a greasy, white substance called vernix caseosa (which means varnish – vernix and cheese – caseosa in Latin). It is made from lanugo and oil from your baby's glands and dead skin cells. This vernix protects your baby's skin from the amniotic fluid and sheds as the due date nears. However, some babies are still covered in it right after birth.

Hair

The hair canal or tunnel in the skin holding your baby's hair is now fully formed. Your baby's scalp hair will soon be visible between now and 22 weeks.

Tiny teeth

Your baby's primary teeth are developing. However, you won't be able to see them yet or for a few months after birth.

More fat

Your baby has already begun developing white fat tissue that stores energy. Now, he will also start developing brown fat that will help him keep warm.

19 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms

You might continue to experience symptoms from the past few weeks, or some new symptoms that didn't show up back then might occur. To know more, read below:

Skin changes

You might notice dark patches on your face, called chloasma or mask of pregnancy caused due to increased hormones. These hormones are also responsible for the linea nigra, a line that traces down your belly to your pubic bone. Although they might worry you now, they will eventually fade away after your baby's birth. Be sure to avoid much sun exposure, stay in the shade or apply sunscreen as sun rays can darken your skin pigments.

Round ligament pain

The round ligaments supporting your uterus stretch as it continues to grow. Occasionally, these stretched ligaments can cause sharp or dull pain in your lower abdomen (usually on one side or the other). It might worsen as you change positions or get up suddenly. Try to rest as much as you can for better relief. If it is accompanied by fever, chills, painful urination, severe pain, or bleeding, contact your doctor to rule out other issues.

Lower back pain

Backaches are quite normal at this stage of pregnancy and are mostly caused due to your expanding uterus and hormonal changes. As your centre of gravity shifts, your uterus puts a strain on your back muscles. Try exercises that stretch and strengthen your back muscles, wear abdominal supports, or use heating pads for relief.

Nosebleeds and congestion

The mucous membranes in your nose can swell up due to the increased hormone levels and extra blood your body is making. This can cause a stuffed nose or congestion and maybe even lead to nosebleeds.

Dizziness

Feeling faint, lightheaded or dizzy at this stage of pregnancy is quite common. Lying down can help you feel better.

Things to Consider at the Nineteenth Week of Pregnancy

You might want to consider the following things at 19 weeks pregnant:

• Exercise: Although exercise is important for you and your baby, avoid overdoing it. Try walking, swimming, yoga, or Pilates as these are safe. You can also try exercises that help in strengthening your back muscles and reducing your stress levels. Before you begin a new routine, make sure to run it through your doctor first.

• Sleep: Sleeping flat on your back can put weight on your spine and back muscles and compress your blood vessels, making you feel dizzy. Sleep on your side, bending both your legs and placing a pillow between your knees. You can also place a pillow under your belly for added support.

• Network: Connect with other to-be-moms in our locality or build a network online to help prepare for your last phase of the journey in a better way. You can also talk to family or friends who are parents to younger children.

• Baby shower: Have you organised your baby registry yet? The baby shower will soon be around the corner, and the host will soon be taking details from you to include in the invitations that will be sent out well in advance. So, start preparing the baby registry if you haven't already.

• Baby gear: Although you will be getting gifts in the baby shower, utilise this time to think about the baby essentials that aren't mentioned in the registry. Now that you have time, you and your partner can start shopping for the baby essentials to avoid last-minute hustle-bustle. Remember, you don't need to buy everything that's advertised – choose things that are really necessary and fit in the budget.

Precautions & Tips at 19th Week of Pregnancy

Here are some tips for you this week:

• Yeast infections: With already so much going on, the last thing you would want is a yeast infection. Although yeast infection during pregnancy is quite common, it is better to consult your doctor and get it treated.

• Childbirth class: When choosing a childbirth class, look for the one that provides hands-on practice and knowledge about the entire birthing process. This will help reduce your anxiety and prepare you for your baby's birth.

• Fibre: Make sure to eat a healthy amount of fibrous foods and drink enough water. Avoid eating too much fibre as it can lead to gastric problems. It's always best to start including fibrous foods in your diet slowly.

• Small meals: Eat six smaller meals rather than three larger ones to keep your nutrition levels constant. It will also prevent from overloading your digestive system.

• Sun exposure: Exposure to the sun can add to your chloasma. Make sure you wear a wide-brimmed hat, long sleeves clothes, and apply sunscreen that is enriched with SPF 30 or more on your skin.

• Lean protein: The easiest way is to indulge in some wraps, paninis, double-deckers, or any type of sandwiches you relish. Turn it into a healthy one by dumping in some lean proteins, fibre, greens, and whole grains to make a quick, wholesome lunch.

• Forgetfulness: It can be frustrating to suddenly start forgetting things. It can be due to lack of sleep, increased stress levels, or poor diet. Although pregnancy brain is unavoidable, getting a little extra sleep, eating nutritious food, and reducing stress can help.

• Healthy teeth: A healthy diet helps prevent tooth decay for you while helps develop strong teeth for your baby. Make sure you choose healthy snacks that are less sugary, drink plenty of water and milk instead of sugary juices and soda, eat fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and whole grains, and get enough calcium, vitamins A, C and D, and phosphorus.

Ask Your Doctor

You might have your level 2 ultrasound at 19 weeks pregnant. If your doctor has recommended amniocentesis or maternal serum screening for you, then you might have them too. If you have any questions or concerns related to pregnancy, don't forget to get them clarified this week. Here's what you can ask your doctor:

• What is the size of my baby at 19 weeks pregnant?

• What is the position of my baby?

• What exercises are safe for me to practice at this stage?

• What causes uncomfortable symptoms like severe back pain, abdominal pain, painful urination, or fever?

Get week-by-week expert tips on pregnancy to keep track of your baby’s development & to ensure well-being of both you & your baby during entire nine months journey!

Although this week was a bit painful and more exhausting than the last, it also brought along adorable moments of experiencing your little one's movements. With only a few months to go, make sure you take good care of yourself and the baby while enjoying this phase of your life.